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Although the black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta), pictured above, is native to parts of the United States, did you know that it is not native, but naturalized to New York State (Werier et al., 2024)? Knowing the native range and status (native, non-native, invasive) of the plants in your garden is very important for helping to create a healthy ecosystem.
Image. Picture of black-eyed Susan (Courtesy of Stephanie Gilman)
Being able to identify the plants in your area is a helpful skill. Luckily, there are many ways that you can learn how to do this or have it done for you. Check out some of the resources below to learn more!
Being able to identify the plants in your area is a helpful skill. Luckily, there are many ways that you can learn how to do this or have it done for you. Check out some of the resources below to learn more!
Get a good field guide!
Get a good field guide!
There are many different field guides depending on the species that you wish to identify. I suggest using a field guide for wildflowers, shrubs and trees, and/or herbaceous plants. Check out this link for some suggestions!
Find out what plants are native to your area.
Find out what plants are native to your area.
The USDA Plants Database shows all of the plants found in the United States and shows whether they are native, non-native, or invasive.
The New York Flora Atlas shows all of the plants found in New York State and their native, non-native, or invasive status.
New York Invasive Species is a site that can help you identify invasive species that could be lurking in your yard.
Invasive.Org is a site that can help you identify invasive plants, fungi, and animals across North America.
Use these sites and apps to contribute to the power of citizen science and identify the plants in your yard and elsewhere.
Use these sites and apps to contribute to the power of citizen science and identify the plants in your yard and elsewhere.
Plant Net is a citizen science app that can help you identify plants with the snap of a photo.
iNaturalist is another citizen science app that you can use to identify plants, animals, and fungi.
Garden for Wildlife's Ultimate Guide to Plant Identification Apps for Every Gardener is a list of apps that can help you identify plants in the wild and your garden.
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